Perilla is an annual plant that can reach 45 to 60 cm in height. Very ornamental , it is called Shiso in Japan and Zi-su in China.

Perilla leaves are eaten raw or cooked , to flavor rice , fish , soups , spring rolls and vegetables . Its indefinable flavor includes notes of basil , pepper , lemon balm , etc.

Perilla Seeds

Sowing Perilla or Shiso can be long and capricious.

• Sowing is mainly carried out in spring , either under cover or in autumn .
• It is advisable to sow in a tray so that the Perilla plants can be transplanted into pots when they have reached the 2-3 leaf stage.
• To facilitate the rising, it is recommended to leave the seeds to soak overnight, like parsley seeds.
• As Perilla needs light to germinate well, it is advisable to expose the terrines to light.
• Sow on a bed of potting soil , press down lightly and cover with very little soil. Maintain the temperature at 20°C and keep the potting soil moist .
• Perilla germination can take a long time, from 2 to 4 weeks , so be patient.

Planting young plants

Young Perilla plants can be planted in the garden or vegetable patch , 25 cm apart in all directions, as soon as night frosts are no longer a risk.

Favor sunny exposure and maintain a humid atmosphere to encourage their development.